Volunteers and swimmers at Devizes Amateur Swimming Club are celebrating the club’s 130th anniversary this summer - marking more than a century of community sport in Devizes.

Founded in June 1896, the club began at the “bathing place” in the Kennet and Avon Canal behind St Peter’s Church, between locks 48 and 49. Early members swam alongside canal boats and wildlife, competing in events such as springboard diving and underwater swimming.

Following safety and cleanliness concerns, and with a donation from Lord Roundway, a purpose-built outdoor pool opened at Rotherstone in July 1936 and served generations of swimmers, both club members and public. When it closed in 1989, the club relocated to Devizes Leisure Centre in 1990, where it continues to thrive.

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Today, the volunteer-run club has around 80 members aged 5–18. Lessons run weekly during term time to teach swimming skills, with a gala squad competing at local and regional events throughout the year. New members and volunteers are always welcome.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 130 years of serving our community,” said Stephen Garbett, Chairman. “From our early days in the canal to the thriving club we see today, it has always been about giving young people the chance to learn, improve and enjoy the water. Our volunteers and members are the heart of the club.”  Club Secretary Cassie Maxfield added:
“The focus has always been on teaching children to swim well and to feel confident in the water. While we’re extremely proud of our gala squad, at heart we are a teaching club, helping young people build strong foundations and essential life skills. If you want your child to learn to swim in a supportive, community-focused environment, there is no better local club to join.”
 
A Lifetime of Dedication

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The anniversary also recognises Janet Johnson, the club’s President and lifetime member, whose 64 years of involvement reflect the spirit of the organisation.

Janet joined aged 10, swimming at the outdoor Rotherstone pool. By 18, she was volunteering as a swim teacher and serving on the senior committee.

Following the move to Devizes Leisure Centre, she helped establish both a water polo team and a Masters swimming team, while also running adult lessons to build water confidence in the community.
Alongside her club work, Janet spent 34 years at Wansdyke Primary School, where she inspired generations of young people, including through weekly swimming lessons.

Now 74, she remains an active coach and much-loved presence at the club.

“Swimming has been my life,” said Janet. “I’ve made a lifetime of friends and enjoyed so many wonderful experiences, in and out of the pool. I’m now coaching the children of swimmers I taught years ago. It’s always lovely to see families return with the next generation.”

The club’s 130th anniversary celebrates not only its history, but the volunteers, families and swimmers who continue to sustain it.

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For more information about joining as a swimmer or volunteer, email enquiries.dasc@gmail.com.